As ceiling height increases in a warehouse, smoke cools and stratifies before reaching the detector; point detectors respond late or not at all. In volumes above 10 metres, linear (beam) or air sampling (ASD) detection is required.
Fire risks in this environment
- High ceiling smoke stratification → late detection
- High fire load (cardboard, plastic, wood)
- Rapid vertical spread between racks
- Fire originating from forklift and charging station
- Detector blinding in cold storage
Regulations and standards
Fire detection is required in storage facilities under BYKHY scope; sprinkler design is also determined according to fire load and storage height. Detection design shall be performed in accordance with TS CEN/TS 54-14.
Recommended technologies
Warehouse & Storage Fire Safety — the right solution combination and the reasons behind it.
Beam Detector
Linear smoke detection in large and high-volume spaces; the most common warehouse solution.
Related products →Aspirated Detector (ASD)
Very early detection in cold storage and hard-to-reach spaces.
Related products →Linear Heat (LHD)
Heat-based linear detection in rack interiors and charging zones.
Related products →Typical system architecture
Ceiling volume is scanned with beam detectors; motorized automatic alignment models reduce maintenance burden against building movement. In cold storage areas and hard-to-reach spaces, ASD ducting is installed. Forklift charging zones are protected as separate zones with LHD.
Common field mistakes
- Relying on point detectors above 10 m ceiling
- Routing beam line through rack/hoist movement area (sudden obstruction)
- Using standard detector in cold storage
- Not designating charging zone as separate zone
Frequently Asked Questions
What should be used in a warehouse with high ceiling?
Beam (light) detector or aspirating system. Point detectors respond late in high ceilings due to smoke stratification.
What detection is suitable for cold storage?
Aspirating (ASD) system is preferred; since ducting can be run externally, low temperature and condensation issues can be managed.
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